Summer days are here, gifting us extended sunshine to linger and play. It is the time when many will either be streaming into the parks across the street from the Alamo Inn and Suites or holidaying at the beach. If you're visiting Orange County and want a break from our usual tourist spots, The LAB Anti-Mall in Costa Mesa is a nice detour from the usual. Short for "Little American Business," The LAB Anti-Mall is an outdoor space focused on supporting small businesses and local artisans, about a 30 minute drive from the Alamo Inn and Suites depending on day and time. What sets The LAB apart from a typical mall is the artistic and organic vibe it offers – from vibrant murals and cozy outdoor seating to eclectic décor. It is the perfect place to slow down, wander around, and just kick it.
If you're a fellow caffeine lover like me, get started at Nook Coffee Bar for a handcrafted cold brew or matcha. I recently discovered matcha and can't get enough of it. Recently, I ordered myself a strawberry matcha, and it did not disappoint! What I appreciate about this coffee shop is that their matcha is ceremonial grade – apparently the highest quality of matcha. While sipping your beverage, take a look at some of the shops around, like Buffalo Exchange, a trendy secondhand store where you could go treasure-hunting. Or swing by Creme Tangerine, which offers vinyl records inside an Airstream trailer. If you're vegan or interested in plant-based food, Seabirds Kitchen is a great option with a seasonal menu. And for those who enjoy casual bars, Ruin Bar is a speakeasy with a vintage aesthetic and great cocktails. It's hard to miss their iconic CD tunnel and the colorful barrel fountain.
The LAB offers free parking but can fill up quickly, so consider arriving early. If you enjoy The LAB and need a little more to extend your outing, swing over to The CAMP – The LAB's eco-conscious sister property – right across the street. The CAMP has a similar atmosphere with even more shops and eateries. Finally, if the anti-mall is a little too funky for you, or you're just wanting to browse a few name-brands, South Coast Plaza – the largest shopping mall in all of California – is a 5 minute drive from The LAB. Who says we can't have it all?